§ Mr. WrayTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what awards will be given to police officers on the front line; and how an officer will qualify for an award. [22867]
§ Mr. Denham[holding answer 18 December 2001]: Awards to police officers in Scotland are a matter for the Scottish Executive. All police officers in England and Wales are eligible to receive awards, whether in recognition of distinguished or long service or of a particular act of bravery. The criteria for awards are the same for Scotland as for England and Wales.
My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport announced on 4 December 2001 that eligibility for the Golden Jubilee Medal is to be extended to all members of the emergency services, using five years' service criterion applying to the defence services. Police officers and special constables who have served a minimum of five years reckonable service at the time of the 50th Anniversary of the Queen's Accession (6 February 2002) will be eligible for the award.